title: Shared-resource computing for small research labs.
abstract: A real time laboratory computer network is described. This network is composed of four real-time laboratory minicomputers located in each of four division laboratories and a larger minicomputer in a centrally located computer room. Off the shelf hardware and software were used with no customization. The network is configured for resource sharing using DECnet communications software and the RSX-11-M multi-user real-time operating system. The cost effectiveness of the shared resource network and multiple real-time processing using priority scheduling is discussed. Examples of utilization within a medical research department are given.
mesh_terms: D003201:Computers / Q000191:economics; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D003625:Data Collection; D003626:Data Display; D007753:Laboratories; D008905:Minicomputers; D013997:Time Factors